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News: Carné Malaguista / First team

Málaga CF passes the test with flying colours against Newcastle (3-1)

The Blue and Whites got off to a fantastic start in the Schalke Cup with a 3-1 victory over Newcastle United in the first match of the LFP World Challenge tournament. A goal from Sergi Darder and two from Samu Castillejo led to the Málaga victory, with Castillejo named man of the match.

Coach, Javi Gracia stated in the pre-match press conference before heading to Germany that he wouldn’t be making as many changes to the line-up during the match compared to the other pre-season games, and maintained the starting-11 until mid-way through the second half.

Málaga CF dominated possession and generated numerous goal opportunities. Duda came close to opening the scoring after nine minutes as he was unmarked in front of the rival keeper, but a corner kick was given.

Sergi Darder put the Blue and Whites in front in minute 24 with a spectacular shot some 30 metres away from the target, with the ball finding the net after colliding with the post.

An impressive pass from Horta saw Santa Cruz alone inside the goal area, however the keeper stopped a second Málaga goal with his foot.

An amazing performance from Samu Castillejo began with a fantastic left-footer into goal following a great assist from Gámez, to put the Blue and Whites 0-2 up at the Veltins Arena after 36 minutes. Málaga CF completely controlled the first half, and just before half-time, another powerful shot from Castillejo in front of the target increased Málaga’s lead to 0-3 in minute 43. This impressive performance from the La Academia player saw him named man of the match.

The game was all but decided after the first half, and there was less emotion for the remaining 45 minutes. Javi Gracia’s men looked set to increase their lead as an unmarked Weligton tried his luck, but his shot at target collided with the post.

Obertan put Newcastle on the scoreboard in minute 59, with a shot that was impossible for Kameni to save. However the ‘Malagistas’ went on to victory in the first match of the Schalke Cup. Tomorrow they take on West Ham United.